9 things we learnt from 9 days in Ladakh

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When we were planning a slightly last minute road trip to this breathtaking terrain, we found tons of information and tempting photographs on the web. That made filtering a bit difficult. Lucky to be with a group of friends, we managed comfortably with a pool of resources at our disposal. But having “been there done that”, we can safely put down little tips that made our Ladakh experience a memorable one and some that would save you a lot of trouble. Take a look and bring this side of India higher up on your bucket list.

1. Start slow and be ready to stop at numerous points each day of your road trip (hard to miss capturing scenes like this one below)

Somewhere near Magnetic Hill, Ladakh
Somewhere near Magnetic Hill, Ladakh

2. It’s not just about your way or the highway. Sometimes it’s the sheep’s way. And you gotta let them pass

On the way to Kargil from Sonmarg
On the way to Kargil from Sonmarg

3. Drop dead beauty is preceded by jaw dropping dangerous journeys

Chang La
Shot at Chang La Pass

4. Monasteries may appear to be regular tourist spots but they’re the best way to discover another culture and religion. Spend some silent moments and you will be captivated.

A monk lights candles before evening sets in.
A monk lights candles before evening sets in, Hemis Monastery

5. Be prepared to fall sick at least once throughout the journey. Keep those vomit bags  and mineral water bottles ready and find safe corners to breathe in some fresh air.

Keep the medicines handy and stock up on mineral water.
Only stop at safe corners.

6. Khardungla Pass is over-rated…

..and all you would end up doing is take corny photos. Seriously, skip it, it's been trashed by tourists and similar views are present throughout.
..and all you would end up doing is taking corny photos. Seriously, skip it, it’s been trashed by tourists and similar views are present throughout.

7. Say YES to an overnight stay at Pangong Lake. Such a beauty! Don’t listen to anyone who offers you a day trip.

No photo does justice to this beautiful place.
No photo does justice to this beautiful place.

8. Give camel rides at Nubra Valley a pass – but do wait till sunset to get a dramatic shot against those overwhelming backdrops.

Venturing into the valley.
Venturing into the valley.

9. Try and catch a music/rock concert at Leh- it is a great way to live the life of a local and mingle with them. These people are happy with their surroundings and value their limited course of food and entertainment.

Our friends having a mad time at a rock concert in Leh. This was all thanks to our friendly driver.
Our friends having a mad time at a rock concert in Leh, thanks to our super driver who understood that we wanted to see a slice of local life.

Bonus tip: Hike up to the top of Leh Palace to get a bird’s eye view of the town.

A view of Leh from the King's Palace
A view from the top
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Bharat, the co-founder of Fun Travelog is based out of Boston, USA. He loves making travel plans with his like-minded wife Supriya, reading, toying with his digital SLR and playing tennis.

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